As tensions escalate in the Middle East with heightening hostilities between Israel and Iran, the Indian Embassy in Israel issued a revised safety advisory on Saturday for Indian nationals living in Israel.
Sharing the advisory on social media platform X, the official handle of the embassy @indemtel tweeted: "In light of the current situation in the region, all Indian nationals in Israel are advised to exercise caution and adhere to the safety guidelines prescribed by the Israeli authorities and Home Front Command."
The embassy advised Indian citizens to remain vigilant, avoid non-essential travel, and be close to predetermined safety shelters. The advisory also stressed adhering to local advice to maintain personal safety.
"We are closely following the situation, including the safety and welfare of Indian nationals. In the event of any emergency, kindly contact the Embassy's 24x7 Telephone: +972 54-7520711, +972 54-3278392, or email: [email protected]," the embassy added.
This announcement followed a day after a top-level discussion between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Netanyahu was said to have updated Modi on the latest happenings, especially after Israel had begun a military attack on Iran.
"Received a call from PM Netanyahu of Israel. He updated me on the unfolding situation. I communicated India's apprehensions and reiterated the necessity for early restoration of peace and stability in the region," Prime Minister Modi posted on X after the call.
As per a statement released by Netanyahu's office, the Israeli Prime Minister contacted different world leaders, including the Indian Prime Minister, after launching 'Operation Rising Lion,' a tactical move against Iranian threats to Israel's national security.
"Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, starting last evening, has spoken with leaders from around the world, including the German Chancellor, Indian Prime Minister and French President. The Prime Minister will speak with US President Trump, Russian President Putin and the British Prime Minister," stated the official release.
"The leaders expressed appreciation for Israel's defence requirements against the Iranian threat of destruction; the Prime Minister declared that he would be remaining in touch with them over the next few days," the statement further said.
On Friday, Netanyahu officially declared 'Operation Rising Lion', designed to neutralize what Israel perceives as immanent threats arising from Iran's nuclear program.
The situation was further worsened earlier on Saturday when Iran fired nearly 100 missiles in two waves at central and northern areas of Israel. The Israeli military and the national rescue service Magen David Adom (MDA) confirmed extensive damage and injuries to at least 41 people.
Among the injured, MDA cited two as being in critical condition, two as having moderate injuries, and four with mild to moderate injuries. Numerous others received treatment for minor wounds or psychological trauma, including panic attacks.
Iranian state media later confirmed responsibility for the missile strikes, saying they were part of a larger retaliation amid rising bilateral tensions.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the attack, with "another barrage has been fired toward Israel," although details on the quantity of missiles or exact points of impact were not initially released.
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